SHOWING SUPPORT — Hancock County Commissioners, front to back, Paul Cowey, Eron Chek, and Tommy Ogden, approved a letter of support Thursday for Current Hydro’s planned hydroelectric project in Hancock County. -- Craig Howell

NEW CUMBERLAND — Hancock County commissioners are offering their support for a project aimed at bringing a hydroelectric plant to the county.

During Thursday’s meeting, commissioners unanimously approved a letter of support for Current Hydro in its effort to locate a hydroelectric project in the county.

Officials with Current Hydro approached commissioners approximately one year ago, presenting their plans to locate a facility on the eastern side of the New Cumberland Locks and Dam.

While commissioners offered no comment during Thursday’s meeting, the letter of support approved noted the project’s potential for economic development and job creation.

“The New Cumberland Hydroelectric Project located on the Ohio River in Hancock County is a welcomed development that would grow the local economy and provide renewable energy benefits to our communities,” the letter notes.

“The County Commission is pleased that Current Hydro is committed to hiring local and regional construction companies. With the Project’s two-year construction phase, there are expected to be over 200 onsite workers which will have a positive effect on the Hancock County economy. Following construction, operating the Project will offer multiple full-time employment opportunities for decades to come as this hydroelectric Project will be a long-term asset in the community. Additionally, the Project will increase renewable energy capacity for the local utility grid.”

Previously announced plans for the project, set to break ground in either late 2025 or early 2026, include the construction of a dedicated fishing area, in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Other potential projects by Current Hydro on the Ohio River include proposed facilities at the Pike Island Locks and Dam in Wheeling, and the Robert C. Byrd Locks and Dam in Gallipolis, W.Va.

In other business, Thursday, commissioners:

Approved a Memorandum of Release of Deed of Trust for Christopher J. Allison, 325 Bentley Ave., Newell;

Appointed Christopher Brian Barrett II, of Weirton, to the Hancock County Parks and Recreation Board;

Approved the resignation of Jeff Oyster from the Brooke-Hancock-Jefferson Metropolitan Planning Commission;

Agreed to subscribe to Plan C of the Public Employees Insurance Agency;

Voted 2-1 to approve a pay increase for Lily Lyon to align with an amount previously budgeted for a vacant full-time position at the Hancock County Animal Shelter. Commission President Eron Chek cast the dissenting vote;

Set special commission meetings at 12:30 p.m., April 15, and 1 p.m. April 21, and the next regular meeting at 2:30 p.m., April 24.